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October 06, 2015

Quick Servant

How Do VOCs Affect IAQ?

Indoor air quality can often be worse than outdoor air quality, but not all of that pollution comes from particulates like pollen, soot, mold spores and dust. Sometimes, the worst offenders are things that can’t be seen: volatile organic compounds.

Volatile Organic Compounds and Indoor Air Quality

Volatile organic compounds (or VOCs for short) are components of many natural and synthetic chemicals. They’re carbon based, gaseous at room temperature, and may or may not have a detectable odor. Indoors, they are most commonly found as by-products of paint, varnish or glue. Some items, like carpeting or furniture, might release VOCs for years. Even though some VOCs can be detected by smell, the strength of a VOC’s scent isn’t an indicator of its potential effects.

The Dangers of VOC Pollution

VOCs can have detrimental health effects over both the short and long term. Over the short term, some VOCs can cause headaches, dizziness, confusion, respiratory problems, or irritation to eyes, nose, throat or skin. Over the long term, some VOCs have been shown to increase risks of certain cancers. For people with migraines, seizures, or respiratory problems like asthma, VOCs can trigger a medical emergency.

A Quality HVAC System Can Help Lower VOCs

The solution to pollution is dilution (say that three times fast!), and this also goes for indoor air pollution. An optimally-functioning HVAC system helps exchange polluted indoor air for fresh outdoor air. Though furniture, paint and carpeting might continue to release these chemicals, a well-maintained HVAC system will help minimize the impact of the VOCs they release by keeping rooms ventilated.

Protect Your Loved Ones With Quick Servant

If you’re concerned about VOCs in your home, the solution could lie with your HVAC system. At Quick Servant, we offer a variety of products and services designed to keep your home comfortable while improving indoor air quality in the process. Even better, we offer 24/7 emergency HVAC service for residents of the Delaware, Maryland, Virginia and DC areas. Call today to keep yourself and your family safe from the invisible dangers of VOC pollution.

Schedule a visit with us today to get the fast, reliable service you need! We provide repair, replacement and maintenance for a multitude of services, including air conditioning, refrigeration and cooking equipment.